Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: The board will be considering revisions to the pilot license upgrade programs in both the Puget Sound and Grays Harbor Pilotage Districts to better align with statutory rest rules and changes in vessel traffic. The board seeks to ensure that upgrading pilots are gaining necessary experience with larger vessels as they progress through their first five years of piloting while also maintaining best practices in fatigue mitigation.

Process for Developing New Rule: Discussion regarding proposed revisions will occur at monthly trainee evaluation committee and board meetings. Upon committee review and consensus, and consultation with the board's assistant attorney general, a recommendation will be presented to the board. Tribe and stakeholder comments are encouraged throughout the process. Upon review and consideration of recommended revisions, a public hearing will be scheduled pursuant to formal notice requirements.

Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Jaimie C. Bever, Executive Director, 2901 3rd Avenue, Suite 500, Seattle, WA 98121, phone 206-515-3887, fax 206-515-3906, email BeverJ@wsdot.wa.gov, website www.pilotage.wa.gov.